Independence day is an interesting time to reflect on our strange fealty to institutions that the British left us, including those that were explicitly set up to be used against us.

In this quote, Abhijit Banerjee prompts reflection on the legacy left behind by the British during the period of colonialism. He points to Independence Day as an opportunity to consider the institutions that were established by the British and still persist in post-colonial societies. These institutions, though designed to serve the interests of the colonizers, continue to shape the political and social structures of many former colonies.

Banerjee specifically highlights the strange fealty or loyalty that these nations continue to show towards these institutions, even though they were often designed to oppress or control. Despite achieving independence, many countries have maintained systems that were initially put in place to subjugate them. This reflects the lasting influence of colonial rule, where the colonial powers often left behind structures that they used to assert dominance, yet were adopted by the newly independent nations, sometimes without questioning their effectiveness or fairness.

The origin of this quote lies in Banerjee's broader critiques of global inequality and the lingering effects of colonialism on former colonies. As a Nobel laureate and economist, Banerjee has frequently discussed how economic policies and institutions in post-colonial countries are often inherited from their colonial rulers, which may not always align with the needs or aspirations of the people. His statement urges a reevaluation of the legacy of these institutions and their continued influence.

Banerjee’s quote invites a deeper consideration of the post-colonial struggle for true autonomy. It suggests that independence is not just about political freedom but also about breaking free from the lingering grasp of colonial systems that may still bind nations to outdated structures. The reflection on Independence Day challenges societies to confront and potentially dismantle the colonial remnants that continue to shape their modern identities.